Senior Tory MP blasts ‘there’s no excuse’ for no summer holidays

Senior Tory MP Sir Charles Walker, who is also the vice-chairman of the 1922 Committee has branded Grant Shapps as “totally irresponsible.”

Sir Charles hit out at the Transport Secretary for saying there will be no summer holiday and said that there is “no excuse.”

Speaking to Sky News, Sir Charles said: “Last year, summer holidays went ahead, caseload was very low. This year we have a vaccine with very high efficacy rates.

“I’m afraid there is no excuse.”

Shapps has warned that holidays abroad will remain banned until “everybody” has been vaccinated, and said it is far “too soon” to book any trips. Under the current third lockdown all leisure travel is prohibited.

Shapps was asked by the BBC what must change for overseas travel to be allowed to resume. The Transport Secretary said, “First of all, everybody having their vaccinations.”

Also the Health Secretary announced on Tuesday that those caught lying on their passenger locator forms will be handed a 10-year prison sentence, which has sparked much criticism from former Judges and MPs.

Sir Charles added, “Are we really going to lock people up for ten years for being dishonest about the fact they’ve been to Portugal?

“By all means give them a fine, give them a hefty fine.

“But are you really seriously suggesting Mr Hancock that we’ve got enough prison capacity to start locking up 19-year-old silly kids for ten years?

“What a stupid thing to say, I mean a really stupid thing to say.

“It demeans his office and his position around the Cabinet table.”